‘Women power’ at the heart of Mobicel IX smartphone series

Johannesburg – the top selling South African budget smartphone brand recently unveiled the IX Series smartphones at an exclusive launch event in Fourways, Johannesburg.

Graced by prominent celebrities and some of SA’s leading influencers, the event was not just a showcase of the company’s latest technological advances yet, but also the acceleration of its commitment to empowering South African communities.

Powered by cutting-edge features, the IX Series, led by the flagship IX Plus, is a testament to the company’s dedication to providing high-quality, accessible technology for all South Africans at the most affordable price.

During the fully packed event, Mobicel also took the opportunity to spotlight its groundbreaking four-year-old local production facility in Midrand, Johannesburg.

True to its founding mission, the assembly plant stands as a symbol of Mobicel’s contributions to job creation, economic growth, and the empowerment of women in the technology sector, who make up 70% of its workforce. This, without a doubt, is a major feat for a company that started small – with basic phones with no camera, to enabling digital accessibility to ordinary South Africans, and to now “standing as the second-leading cellphone brand”. Likewise, Mobicel founder and CEO Ridhwan Khan is proud of the journey the company has traveled to over the years. Most importantly, he tells us, whenever the company achieves something great, they always remember that it is women who make these very competitive mobile devices.

“We have come a long way. And trust me, our female employees have carried us all the way,” he said. Cognizant of the potential women possess if given a platform to shine, Mobicel offers its majority female employees ongoing training to upskill themselves and ensure they’re employable.

A truly inspiring story of determination, innovation and transformation, with every device that comes out of the Mobicel midrand plant, and lands in the hands of multitudes of South Africans nationwide, the company’s impact ripples beyond technology – its commitment to building equitable, healthy and sustainable communities.

“Our journey has been one of relentless innovation and deep commitment to our community. The IX Series launch and our celebration of local manufacturing excellence are milestones that reflect our dedication to not just leading in technology but also making a meaningful impact on society,” Khan said.

Availability and pricing

Building on the success of its 2023 predecessor, the VX20, all the three models are equipped with a whopping 50MP camera and premium design finishes.

Available for purchase at leading South African retailers nationwide, the premium IX Plus sells for R1999, while the IX Pro is priced for R 1499, and the IX at just R999.

For more information on the IX Series and Mobicel’s initiatives in innovation and community empowerment, visit www.mobicel.co.za.